This is the opening speech supporting my resolution.
The United States of America believes that the piracy off the Horn of Africa is a major issue that needs to be solved. However, the way to approach this problem is not to find a temporary solution, but to actually make sure the piracy doesn't recur. Thus, the delegate believes that an approach on the Somali government is the correct way to go in order to halt the piracy. Since the government had been unstable for twenty years, the economy and politics of Somalia are at a rapid decline, leading to the current surge in poverty in the region. Thus, the pirates finding no other way in order to make a living, decide to cross the thin blue line. The United States believes that if the international community can support the Somalia government and get it back on its feet, the economical and political stability of Somalia will rise, and the piracy will be halted, as people will be able to find legitimate ways to make a good living. The Somali government will always have the military and political rule over the country, which they previously lost, and will be able to take control of the situation currently at hand without help from the international community. Until then, a military task force is still needed, which can only be achieved through whole-hearted international support. Thus, the United States of America hopes that fellow delegates will agree to pass this resolution and allow the United States to lead the assault against these pirates for the time being. Thank you.
Forum of: Security Council
Question of: The problem of piracy off the Horn of Africa
Delegation: The United States of America
Delegate: Willy Liao
School: SAS Pudong
Honorable chair, fellow delegates and distinguished guests,
The United States of America recognizes the numerous problems in our world today, including the difficulties Afghanistan is facing, the absence of a democracy in Myanmar after they gained independence from Britain, as well as the multiple military coups and subsequent resolutions in Thailand. However, the United States of America believes that a more important problem to deal with at the moment is the frequently rising piracy attacks on the world. Right now the major issue to resolve is the problem of piracy off the Horn ofAfrica, also called the Somali Peninsula. The government of Somalia has been unstable for over twenty years, leading to the current poverty and piracy in the area. There have been over 100 pirate attacks in 2008 alone! Trade ships from both LEDC's and MEDC's are being ravaged by these brutal rebels. There have even been kidnappings of sailors, asking for huge ransoms. We feel that the problem can only be solved by stabilizing the Somali government as well as creating a military task force in order to fend off the pirates currently in Somali waters. The delegation of the United States of America is looking forward to hearing and debating on this and other issues. Thank you.
Forum of: Security Council
Question of: The problem of piracy off the Horn of Africa
Delegation: The United States of America
Delegate: Willy Liao
School: SAS Pudong
Honorable chair, fellow delegates and distinguished guests,
The delegation of the United States of America recognizes the numerous problems in our world today, but right now, a major problem is the problem of piracy off the Horn ofAfrica, also called the Somali Peninsula, where a country by the name of Somalia resides. The government of Somalia has been unstable for over twenty years, leading to the current poverty and piracy problems. There have been over 100 pirate attacks in 2008 alone! Trade ships from both LEDC's and MEDC's are being ravaged by these brutal rebels. There have even been kidnappings of sailors, asking for huge ransoms. The United States of America also recognizes the problems in Afghanistan, and how the United States is involved in the issue because of the 9/11 attacks on the Twin Towers, and the absence of a democracy in Myanmar after they gained independance from Britain, as well as the multiple military coups and subsequent resolutions in Thailand, and the fact that Thailand has been without military rule for the past 15 months. However, the United States of America still believes that a more important problem to deal with at the moment is the frequently rising piracy attacks on the world. Thank you.
QUESTION OF: The Question of Piracy off the Horn of Africa
COMMITTEE: The Security Council
MAIN SUBMITTER: The United States of America
The Security Council,
Acknowledging the fact that many resolutions have been passed to try and solve this topic, including recent resolutions 1801 (2008), 1811 (2008), 1814 (2008), 1831 (2008), 1844 (2008), and 1863 (2009),
Reminding all nations that the piracy off the Horn of Africa affects the economy of many countries worldwide, as it is part of their trade route, including but not limited to:
a. The Suez Canal, an important trade route mainly used for oil transportation,
b. The Mandab Strait, also known as the Bab-el-Mandab, a strategically important waterway also mainly used for oil transportation,
c. The Strait of Hormuz, the only way out of the Persian Gulf, home to many large oil exporters. As up to 40% of the world’s oil export has to go through the Strait of Hormuz, it’s one of the world’s important chokepoints,
Believing that there are many causes that have helped contribute to piracy off the Horn of Africa, including but not limited to:
a. The absence of a strong stable government in Somalia for the last 20 years, resulting in the inability of the country to monitor or protect the Horn of Africa from piracy,
b. The political and economical instability in the entire region, leading to an increase in poverty, resulting in civilian’s resorting to desperate actions,
c. Certain political groups that control Northern Somalia collaborating with and supporting the pirates,
Acknowledging fellow delegates that according to Apple Dictionary, the definition of piracy is attacking ships and robbing at sea, freebooting,
Approving the fact that many countries have already acted by sending their navy to protect trade ships and attack the pirates at sea, by the approval of the UN Security Council through resolution S/RES/1851 (2008) made in December of 2008,
Emphasizing that there have been over 200 pirate attacks in 2008 alone, especially in the Gulf of Aden, and it is estimated that numbers to come in the year 2009 will be even higher,
Aware of the social and economical degradation that Somalia went through during the years the country didn’t have a government, and the lack of control over the nation the government has now, resulting in impediment of international cooperation,
Alarmed by the kidnappings of sailors on trade ships by pirates, who have modernized themselves with rocket-propelled grappling hooks, satellite phones, GPS, speedboats, grenades, AK-47’s, and other weapons resulting from modern military technology.'
1. Congratulates the nine countries that have acted by sending their navy, and hoping other countries with the military power to do so will follow;
2. Proposes that the United States of America lead the assault against the pirates around Somalia because of reason including but not limited to:
a. The United States of America is concerned that Somalia has become a volatile region,
b. The United States of America is worried about the world’s economic crisis and feels that it is imperative to deal with this situation in a timely manner,
c. The United States of America suspects that if this volatile region is not dealt with in a timely manner, it may lead to the formation of terrorist movements,
3. Hopes the United States of America’s dedicated fleet of warships designated under a new mission will be joined by other forces around the world to complete the Combined Task-Force 151 (CTF 151);
4. Encourages that countries focus their attention on stabilizing Somalia’s weak government, in ways including but not limited to:
a. Giving advice to the Somali government on how to better stabilize itself,
b. Assisting the Somali government in negotiations with the groups controlling Northern Somalia,
c. Supporting the Somali government in the creation of a strong military system,
5. Suggests countries that are trying to solve the problem of piracy off the Horn of Africa delve deeper into the lawlessness in Somali waters;
6. Strongly Urges that pirates captured operating in Somali waters are brought in front of the International Court of Justice, or into the court of the country the ship attacked by the pirates belongs to;
7. Recommends that UN Forces or the Somali Government focus part of their attention on the Somali pirate hub town, Eyl, where the pirates bring most of the ships they hijack as well as their hostages. An attack at the core will be a good way to save these hostages;
8. Suggests that other countries using the Horn of Africa as part of their trade route find alternate courses of trade in order to maintain a stable economy;
9. Expresses its Hope that the problem of piracy off the Horn of Africa will be cleared up by the year 2015, as well as a stable government in Somalia.
(Clause 4, Sub-Clause C: Countries are sending their navy to protect trade ships passing through the area, and if they can help the Somali government in the creation of a strong government by starting them off by sending them some UN Forces as a base, and as they build up their government wean them off, then they wouldn't need 24 Hour patrols to protect the trade ships.)
What is the Problem?
Off the Horn of Africa, also called the Somali Peninsula, trade ships are being attacked by pirates. This area is known as Somalia, a country with a government that has no real control over the country. Trade ships from countries both poor and rich are being ravaged by these brutal rebels. The pirates are even holding some of the sailors prisoner, asking for huge ransoms. These pirates must be stopped. The pirate attacks are especially alarming in the Gulf of Aden. How does it affect your Country?
Trade ships containing US imports and exports are also being ravaged by piracy in this general region. The US has sent warships to protect the international ships traveling around the Horn of Africa. To some people in the American government, pirates are the same as terrorists. They are people endangering the safety of the nation. They must be dealt with. The UN has passed a resolution allowing the fight of pirates in Somali waters, though not yet on land. The US hopes to clear the unstable area, since it has become a volatile region.
What are the Various Sides of the Debate?
Most countries believe that Piracy is a huge problem and must be dealt with. The problem is who should deal with it. Some countries are too economically poor to send warships to police these waters. Others would rather not make this a personal issue. Some believe that UN ships should police these waters instead. There is also the problem of the origin of piracy. The beginning of piracy in this region is the corrupt Somali government. The Somali government is suffering from internal dissection, making it impossible for the government to control the nation. So many countries are arguing to leave the problem of piracy alone, and deal with the Somali governments problems. They think that when the governments problems are solved, the problem of piracy will go away on its own.
Which aspects of the issue are most important to your country?
For the US, one of the most important parts of the issue is the question of the warships that will patrol the waters off of Somalia's coast. The US has decided to send a fleet of warships designated under a new mission specially for fighting off this piracy. The US is anxious to fight off this piracy, as they believe it may lead to terrorist movements that will threaten the nation.
How will your country shape the debate at the conference?
As one of the Security Council Big 5, the US will obviously have to put in a lot of input. The US will probably focus more on the military aspects of the issue, as it's what they're best at. But I'm pretty sure that they will show a growing concern into the instability of the Somali government, as fixing that will surely help to prevent terrorist movements from growing in Somalia. Some people think of the US as nosy, always sticking their noses into other people's business. But sometimes, in the long run, it's because of their nosiness that countries end up in a good way. The US will probably shape the debate not only in a military way, but also in a way they feel is best for Somalia.
What Arguments will others make?
Other countries may argue about how much military power they should put into this problem. They may feel that everybody should contribute, in order to ensure no one country will have all the power of deciding what happens in the current issue. They may argue that it is more important to pass a resolution to allow people to fight on Somalia land in order to help the government and eradicate the pirates once and for all. They may say that they don't trust the US to handle the current situation, that they want to protect their own trade ships.
How do other countries position affect yours?
The US will have to take into consideration what the other countries feel about the current situation, as they are part of the Security Council as well, and have the power to veto any resolution they want. But the other countries are also worried about the situation of piracy at the moment, so they will probably agree with the US on several points. There ships are also being attacked, causing both hostages and economical problems to rise. The only question is how to deal with this issue. This is what will mostly be argued about. By land? By sea? All countries? Only a few? Only one? Who will lead?
Is there evidence or stats to back up your position?
Somalia has not had a stable government in twenty years, leading to the current poverty and piracy problems. There have been over 100 pirate attacks in 2008 alone. The problem is evident. There is evidence that sailors are even being held for ransom. The amounts of money the pirates want are huge!
What is the problem? How does it affect your country? Ever since the 9/11 attacks in 2001, there has been an campaign on the country of Afghanistan, with numerous American troops in the country to try and eradicated the Al-Qaeda Terrorist Group, responsible for the 9/11 attacks. The Pro-Western Democratic government that was set up in Afghanistan doesn't have much control over the bordering provinces. Seven years later, the country of Afghanistan is in a very unstable state. The bordering provinces are being attacked frequently by the Taliban who were removed from power, as well as large amounts of violence and rapid drug production. More and more Afghans are starting to join the Taliban because they resent the troubles brought on by the invasion from the American Troops.
What has your country done to combat the problem? The US's involvement is great in this area, since it was the 9/11 attacks in 2001 that led to the US sending troops to Afghanistan, resulting in the insurgency of Afghans, leading to them joining the Taliban and strengthening them. They still have troops stationed in the area, but the hostile civilians are impeding their progress greatly. There is not much they can do, since whenever they stop a drug lord or a Taliban attack, another three springs up rapidly.
What are the various “sides” in the debate? The United Nations wants to focus on stabilizing the government of Afghanistan, and they have done many things to help Afghanistan in that area. The US and many of their close allies see the eradication of the terrorists in the region and defeating the Taliban as their main priority. However, one action seriously undermines the other in the sense that one is peace in Afghanistan, and the other is war.
Which aspects of the issue are most important to your country? The US is probably most concerned about its troops stationed in the area, as well as eradicating the terrorist movements in the area and defeating the Taliban. Their troops have been their for the past seven years, and the US still hasn't forgotten Al-Qaeda's 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center in 2001.
If your country is not involved with the issue, how can it become involved? It's very involved...
How will your country shape the debate at the conference? The US will probably have a lot to talk about in regards to its troops being in the area, and plans either to put them to use or withdraw them back to America. They will want to use their troops to find a military way to defeat the terrorist groups in the region. They will want to keep their troops in the area in order to maintain a hold on Afghanistan.
What arguments will other countries make? Countries who support peace and stabilizing the government and country of Afghanistan over defeating the terrorist groups and the Taliban. Theses countries will argue that using force to defeat these forces over and over again is a stupid plan, and that when Afghanistan has a stable government and becomes a prosperous and safe country, all these groups will be defeated as well, because people will calm down and see peace is the way forward.
How do the positions of other countries affect your country’s position? Iran is a country that wants to keep Afghanistan in a state of terror of violence, because then they will be able to carry on their evil deeds in the area. They sell weapons to the Taliban, buy drugs from the drug lords, and numerous other things. They are one of the countries that are actually benefiting from the instability of Afghanistan. Afghanistan is not being supportive of the Western invasions on their land, and won't help them to succeed in their goals. However, many of US's closer allies agree with the US, and support its decisions on the area wholeheartedly.
Is there evidence or statistics that might help to back up your country’s position?
The Taliban are declining peace talk offers.
Bordering provinces worst hit with violence, massive drug production, and Taliban attacks.
Increasing numbers of Afghans joining the Taliban.
What is the problem? How does it affect your country?
Myanmar gained its independence from Britain on the 4th of January, 1948. However, due to the speediness of the independence, the government of Myanmar did not have enough time to right a firm Independence constitution with which their government should follow, leading to three governmental changes since their independence: From the British, to a civil government, then to a military coup d'etat. Nations around the world see this military coup d'etat as a problem, and are hoping to convince Myanmar to hold multi-party elections, allowing individual parties to run for government, and be voted on in a democratic way.
What has your country done to combat the problem?
The US has been sending aid to the citizens of Myanmar.
What are the various “sides” in the debate?
The updating and correcting of the Independence constitution of Myanmar... Some countries feel that this will stablilize the government best and solve Myanmar's problems. Others feel that they should focus their attentions on making the multi-party elections of 2010 work in order to once again create a democracy.
Which aspects of the issue are most important to your country?
I'm guessing that since the aid that US is sending to Myanmar isn't getting through because of some security blockages, the US would like to focus on resolving a method of undoing those blockades... Either by helping to change their government to a democracy or somehow taking control.
If your country is not involved with the issue, how can it become involved?
It's been sending aid to them, and its most probably one of the countries who hopes that Myanmar will once again become a democracy.
How will your country shape the debate at the conference?
It will probably support the countries who are hoping to make certain that the elections of 2010 succeeds. If possible, it will probably also try to help Myanmar in writing a strong Independence constitution, possibly modeled after their own.
What arguments will other countries make?
Some may say that these problems are Myanmar's, and will in no major way affect the other countries, therefore they would rather not deal with it.
How do the positions of other countries affect your country’s position?
The US will agree with some of them, the ones that want to do something about Myanmar, but they might have some political issues with the countries they disagree with, therefore they will have to be careful with the way they're refusing, tone it down a bit, make it discreet.
Is there evidence or statistics that might help to back up your country’s position?
For the first time in about a million years, Myanmar is finally going to hold a multi-party election. This could be the start of a road to democracy and political stability in Myanmar, with its citizens safe and peace all over the country. No more military coup d'etat!
What is the problem? How does it affect your country?
In the past 78 years there have been 18 military coups and 18 subsequent resolutions in Thailand. Prime Ministers have been taken out of power by military coups or civilian protests. Many of these Prime Ministers are subject to corruption trials, and Thailand is in a politically unstable state. For the past 15 months, Thailand has been without military rule.
What has your country done to combat the problem?
The United States has created a Free Trade Agreement with Thailand, as well as investing a lot of money in Thailand. Supposedly, this money should help Thailand's economy greatly, as well as helping to lead to a much more politically stable government. The pressure put onto Thailand by the world hopefully will make them finally become a politically stable country.
What are the various “sides” in the debate?
Some are hoping to develop the economy of Thailand, which would support the political stability of the country (supposedly). Others are hoping to prosecute all the Prime Ministers and other corrupt government members, hoping to resolve the instability of the political situation in Thailand.
Which aspects of the issue are most important to your country?
The US has been trying to develop the economy of Thailand both with the Free Trade Agreement, and the multiple investments, second only to Japan. It is safe to assume that the US is hoping to develop the economy of Thailand, which would supposedly support the political stability of the country.
If your country is not involved with the issue, how can it become involved?
It's involved.
How will your country shape the debate at the conference?
It will probably want to continue with the development of Thailand's economy, and will want to make that argument heard, to continue what some organizations have already done.
What arguments will other countries make?
They may argue that the improvement of Thailand's economy will have no effect whatsoever on the political stability of the country. They may say that is more important to work on prosecuting the corrupted government members than to try and improve Thailand's economy.
How do the positions of other countries affect your country’s position?
US may have to fold and agree with its closer allies in order to maintain good political terms with them, and so be forced to move from its previous decisions and agree with their allies decisions.
Is there evidence or statistics that might help to back up your country’s position?
This is the opening speech supporting my resolution.
The United States of America believes that the piracy off the Horn of Africa is a major issue that needs to be solved. However, the way to approach this problem is not to find a temporary solution, but to actually make sure the piracy doesn't recur. Thus, the delegate believes that an approach on the Somali government is the correct way to go in order to halt the piracy. Since the government had been unstable for twenty years, the economy and politics of Somalia are at a rapid decline, leading to the current surge in poverty in the region. Thus, the pirates finding no other way in order to make a living, decide to cross the thin blue line. The United States believes that if the international community can support the Somalia government and get it back on its feet, the economical and political stability of Somalia will rise, and the piracy will be halted, as people will be able to find legitimate ways to make a good living. The Somali government will always have the military and political rule over the country, which they previously lost, and will be able to take control of the situation currently at hand without help from the international community. Until then, a military task force is still needed, which can only be achieved through whole-hearted international support. Thus, the United States of America hopes that fellow delegates will agree to pass this resolution and allow the United States to lead the assault against these pirates for the time being. Thank you.
Forum of: Security Council
Question of: The problem of piracy off the Horn of Africa
Delegation: The United States of America
Delegate: Willy Liao
School: SAS Pudong
Honorable chair, fellow delegates and distinguished guests,
The United States of America recognizes the numerous problems in our world today, including the difficulties Afghanistan is facing, the absence of a democracy in Myanmar after they gained independence from Britain, as well as the multiple military coups and subsequent resolutions in Thailand. However, the United States of America believes that a more important problem to deal with at the moment is the frequently rising piracy attacks on the world. Right now the major issue to resolve is the problem of piracy off the Horn of Africa, also called the Somali Peninsula. The government of Somalia has been unstable for over twenty years, leading to the current poverty and piracy in the area. There have been over 100 pirate attacks in 2008 alone! Trade ships from both LEDC's and MEDC's are being ravaged by these brutal rebels. There have even been kidnappings of sailors, asking for huge ransoms. We feel that the problem can only be solved by stabilizing the Somali government as well as creating a military task force in order to fend off the pirates currently in Somali waters. The delegation of the United States of America is looking forward to hearing and debating on this and other issues. Thank you.
Forum of: Security Council
Question of: The problem of piracy off the Horn of Africa
Delegation: The United States of America
Delegate: Willy Liao
School: SAS Pudong
Honorable chair, fellow delegates and distinguished guests,
The delegation of the United States of America recognizes the numerous problems in our world today, but right now, a major problem is the problem of piracy off the Horn ofAfrica, also called the Somali Peninsula, where a country by the name of Somalia resides. The government of Somalia has been unstable for over twenty years, leading to the current poverty and piracy problems. There have been over 100 pirate attacks in 2008 alone! Trade ships from both LEDC's and MEDC's are being ravaged by these brutal rebels. There have even been kidnappings of sailors, asking for huge ransoms. The United States of America also recognizes the problems in Afghanistan, and how the United States is involved in the issue because of the 9/11 attacks on the Twin Towers, and the absence of a democracy in Myanmar after they gained independance from Britain, as well as the multiple military coups and subsequent resolutions in Thailand, and the fact that Thailand has been without military rule for the past 15 months. However, the United States of America still believes that a more important problem to deal with at the moment is the frequently rising piracy attacks on the world. Thank you.
QUESTION OF: The Question of Piracy off the Horn of Africa
COMMITTEE: The Security Council
MAIN SUBMITTER: The United States of America
The Security Council,
Acknowledging the fact that many resolutions have been passed to try and solve this topic, including recent resolutions 1801 (2008), 1811 (2008), 1814 (2008), 1831 (2008), 1844 (2008), and 1863 (2009),
Reminding all nations that the piracy off the Horn of Africa affects the economy of many countries worldwide, as it is part of their trade route, including but not limited to:
a. The Suez Canal, an important trade route mainly used for oil transportation,
b. The Mandab Strait, also known as the Bab-el-Mandab, a strategically important waterway also mainly used for oil transportation,
c. The Strait of Hormuz, the only way out of the Persian Gulf, home to many large oil exporters. As up to 40% of the world’s oil export has to go through the Strait of Hormuz, it’s one of the world’s important chokepoints,
Believing that there are many causes that have helped contribute to piracy off the Horn of Africa, including but not limited to:
a. The absence of a strong stable government in Somalia for the last 20 years, resulting in the inability of the country to monitor or protect the Horn of Africa from piracy,
b. The political and economical instability in the entire region, leading to an increase in poverty, resulting in civilian’s resorting to desperate actions,
c. Certain political groups that control Northern Somalia collaborating with and supporting the pirates,
Acknowledging fellow delegates that according to Apple Dictionary, the definition of piracy is attacking ships and robbing at sea, freebooting,
Approving the fact that many countries have already acted by sending their navy to protect trade ships and attack the pirates at sea, by the approval of the UN Security Council through resolution S/RES/1851 (2008) made in December of 2008,
Emphasizing that there have been over 200 pirate attacks in 2008 alone, especially in the Gulf of Aden, and it is estimated that numbers to come in the year 2009 will be even higher,
Aware of the social and economical degradation that Somalia went through during the years the country didn’t have a government, and the lack of control over the nation the government has now, resulting in impediment of international cooperation,
Alarmed by the kidnappings of sailors on trade ships by pirates, who have modernized themselves with rocket-propelled grappling hooks, satellite phones, GPS, speedboats, grenades, AK-47’s, and other weapons resulting from modern military technology.'
1. Congratulates the nine countries that have acted by sending their navy, and hoping other countries with the military power to do so will follow;
2. Proposes that the United States of America lead the assault against the pirates around Somalia because of reason including but not limited to:
a. The United States of America is concerned that Somalia has become a volatile region,
b. The United States of America is worried about the world’s economic crisis and feels that it is imperative to deal with this situation in a timely manner,
c. The United States of America suspects that if this volatile region is not dealt with in a timely manner, it may lead to the formation of terrorist movements,
3. Hopes the United States of America’s dedicated fleet of warships designated under a new mission will be joined by other forces around the world to complete the Combined Task-Force 151 (CTF 151);
4. Encourages that countries focus their attention on stabilizing Somalia’s weak government, in ways including but not limited to:
a. Giving advice to the Somali government on how to better stabilize itself,
b. Assisting the Somali government in negotiations with the groups controlling Northern Somalia,
c. Supporting the Somali government in the creation of a strong military system,
5. Suggests countries that are trying to solve the problem of piracy off the Horn of Africa delve deeper into the lawlessness in Somali waters;
6. Strongly Urges that pirates captured operating in Somali waters are brought in front of the International Court of Justice, or into the court of the country the ship attacked by the pirates belongs to;
7. Recommends that UN Forces or the Somali Government focus part of their attention on the Somali pirate hub town, Eyl, where the pirates bring most of the ships they hijack as well as their hostages. An attack at the core will be a good way to save these hostages;
8. Suggests that other countries using the Horn of Africa as part of their trade route find alternate courses of trade in order to maintain a stable economy;
9. Expresses its Hope that the problem of piracy off the Horn of Africa will be cleared up by the year 2015, as well as a stable government in Somalia.
(Clause 4, Sub-Clause C: Countries are sending their navy to protect trade ships passing through the area, and if they can help the Somali government in the creation of a strong government by starting them off by sending them some UN Forces as a base, and as they build up their government wean them off, then they wouldn't need 24 Hour patrols to protect the trade ships.)
What is the Problem?
Off the Horn of Africa, also called the Somali Peninsula, trade ships are being attacked by pirates. This area is known as Somalia, a country with a government that has no real control over the country. Trade ships from countries both poor and rich are being ravaged by these brutal rebels. The pirates are even holding some of the sailors prisoner, asking for huge ransoms. These pirates must be stopped. The pirate attacks are especially alarming in the Gulf of Aden.
How does it affect your Country?
Trade ships containing US imports and exports are also being ravaged by piracy in this general region. The US has sent warships to protect the international ships traveling around the Horn of Africa. To some people in the American government, pirates are the same as terrorists. They are people endangering the safety of the nation. They must be dealt with. The UN has passed a resolution allowing the fight of pirates in Somali waters, though not yet on land. The US hopes to clear the unstable area, since it has become a volatile region.
What are the Various Sides of the Debate?
Most countries believe that Piracy is a huge problem and must be dealt with. The problem is who should deal with it. Some countries are too economically poor to send warships to police these waters. Others would rather not make this a personal issue. Some believe that UN ships should police these waters instead. There is also the problem of the origin of piracy. The beginning of piracy in this region is the corrupt Somali government. The Somali government is suffering from internal dissection, making it impossible for the government to control the nation. So many countries are arguing to leave the problem of piracy alone, and deal with the Somali governments problems. They think that when the governments problems are solved, the problem of piracy will go away on its own.
Which aspects of the issue are most important to your country?
For the US, one of the most important parts of the issue is the question of the warships that will patrol the waters off of Somalia's coast. The US has decided to send a fleet of warships designated under a new mission specially for fighting off this piracy. The US is anxious to fight off this piracy, as they believe it may lead to terrorist movements that will threaten the nation.
How will your country shape the debate at the conference?
As one of the Security Council Big 5, the US will obviously have to put in a lot of input. The US will probably focus more on the military aspects of the issue, as it's what they're best at. But I'm pretty sure that they will show a growing concern into the instability of the Somali government, as fixing that will surely help to prevent terrorist movements from growing in Somalia. Some people think of the US as nosy, always sticking their noses into other people's business. But sometimes, in the long run, it's because of their nosiness that countries end up in a good way. The US will probably shape the debate not only in a military way, but also in a way they feel is best for Somalia.
What Arguments will others make?
Other countries may argue about how much military power they should put into this problem. They may feel that everybody should contribute, in order to ensure no one country will have all the power of deciding what happens in the current issue. They may argue that it is more important to pass a resolution to allow people to fight on Somalia land in order to help the government and eradicate the pirates once and for all. They may say that they don't trust the US to handle the current situation, that they want to protect their own trade ships.
How do other countries position affect yours?
The US will have to take into consideration what the other countries feel about the current situation, as they are part of the Security Council as well, and have the power to veto any resolution they want. But the other countries are also worried about the situation of piracy at the moment, so they will probably agree with the US on several points. There ships are also being attacked, causing both hostages and economical problems to rise. The only question is how to deal with this issue. This is what will mostly be argued about. By land? By sea? All countries? Only a few? Only one? Who will lead?
Is there evidence or stats to back up your position?
Somalia has not had a stable government in twenty years, leading to the current poverty and piracy problems. There have been over 100 pirate attacks in 2008 alone. The problem is evident. There is evidence that sailors are even being held for ransom. The amounts of money the pirates want are huge!
What is the problem? How does it affect your country?
Ever since the 9/11 attacks in 2001, there has been an campaign on the country of Afghanistan, with numerous American troops in the country to try and eradicated the Al-Qaeda Terrorist Group, responsible for the 9/11 attacks. The Pro-Western Democratic government that was set up in Afghanistan doesn't have much control over the bordering provinces. Seven years later, the country of Afghanistan is in a very unstable state. The bordering provinces are being attacked frequently by the Taliban who were removed from power, as well as large amounts of violence and rapid drug production. More and more Afghans are starting to join the Taliban because they resent the troubles brought on by the invasion from the American Troops.
What has your country done to combat the problem?
The US's involvement is great in this area, since it was the 9/11 attacks in 2001 that led to the US sending troops to Afghanistan, resulting in the insurgency of Afghans, leading to them joining the Taliban and strengthening them. They still have troops stationed in the area, but the hostile civilians are impeding their progress greatly. There is not much they can do, since whenever they stop a drug lord or a Taliban attack, another three springs up rapidly.
What are the various “sides” in the debate?
The United Nations wants to focus on stabilizing the government of Afghanistan, and they have done many things to help Afghanistan in that area. The US and many of their close allies see the eradication of the terrorists in the region and defeating the Taliban as their main priority. However, one action seriously undermines the other in the sense that one is peace in Afghanistan, and the other is war.
Which aspects of the issue are most important to your country?
The US is probably most concerned about its troops stationed in the area, as well as eradicating the terrorist movements in the area and defeating the Taliban. Their troops have been their for the past seven years, and the US still hasn't forgotten Al-Qaeda's 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center in 2001.
If your country is not involved with the issue, how can it become involved?
It's very involved...
How will your country shape the debate at the conference?
The US will probably have a lot to talk about in regards to its troops being in the area, and plans either to put them to use or withdraw them back to America. They will want to use their troops to find a military way to defeat the terrorist groups in the region. They will want to keep their troops in the area in order to maintain a hold on Afghanistan.
What arguments will other countries make?
Countries who support peace and stabilizing the government and country of Afghanistan over defeating the terrorist groups and the Taliban. Theses countries will argue that using force to defeat these forces over and over again is a stupid plan, and that when Afghanistan has a stable government and becomes a prosperous and safe country, all these groups will be defeated as well, because people will calm down and see peace is the way forward.
How do the positions of other countries affect your country’s position?
Iran is a country that wants to keep Afghanistan in a state of terror of violence, because then they will be able to carry on their evil deeds in the area. They sell weapons to the Taliban, buy drugs from the drug lords, and numerous other things. They are one of the countries that are actually benefiting from the instability of Afghanistan. Afghanistan is not being supportive of the Western invasions on their land, and won't help them to succeed in their goals. However, many of US's closer allies agree with the US, and support its decisions on the area wholeheartedly.
Is there evidence or statistics that might help to back up your country’s position?
What is the problem? How does it affect your country?
Myanmar gained its independence from Britain on the 4th of January, 1948. However, due to the speediness of the independence, the government of Myanmar did not have enough time to right a firm Independence constitution with which their government should follow, leading to three governmental changes since their independence: From the British, to a civil government, then to a military coup d'etat. Nations around the world see this military coup d'etat as a problem, and are hoping to convince Myanmar to hold multi-party elections, allowing individual parties to run for government, and be voted on in a democratic way.
What has your country done to combat the problem?
The US has been sending aid to the citizens of Myanmar.
What are the various “sides” in the debate?
The updating and correcting of the Independence constitution of Myanmar... Some countries feel that this will stablilize the government best and solve Myanmar's problems. Others feel that they should focus their attentions on making the multi-party elections of 2010 work in order to once again create a democracy.
Which aspects of the issue are most important to your country?
I'm guessing that since the aid that US is sending to Myanmar isn't getting through because of some security blockages, the US would like to focus on resolving a method of undoing those blockades... Either by helping to change their government to a democracy or somehow taking control.
If your country is not involved with the issue, how can it become involved?
It's been sending aid to them, and its most probably one of the countries who hopes that Myanmar will once again become a democracy.
How will your country shape the debate at the conference?
It will probably support the countries who are hoping to make certain that the elections of 2010 succeeds. If possible, it will probably also try to help Myanmar in writing a strong Independence constitution, possibly modeled after their own.
What arguments will other countries make?
Some may say that these problems are Myanmar's, and will in no major way affect the other countries, therefore they would rather not deal with it.
How do the positions of other countries affect your country’s position?
The US will agree with some of them, the ones that want to do something about Myanmar, but they might have some political issues with the countries they disagree with, therefore they will have to be careful with the way they're refusing, tone it down a bit, make it discreet.
Is there evidence or statistics that might help to back up your country’s position?
For the first time in about a million years, Myanmar is finally going to hold a multi-party election. This could be the start of a road to democracy and political stability in Myanmar, with its citizens safe and peace all over the country. No more military coup d'etat!
What is the problem? How does it affect your country?
In the past 78 years there have been 18 military coups and 18 subsequent resolutions in Thailand. Prime Ministers have been taken out of power by military coups or civilian protests. Many of these Prime Ministers are subject to corruption trials, and Thailand is in a politically unstable state. For the past 15 months, Thailand has been without military rule.
What has your country done to combat the problem?
The United States has created a Free Trade Agreement with Thailand, as well as investing a lot of money in Thailand. Supposedly, this money should help Thailand's economy greatly, as well as helping to lead to a much more politically stable government. The pressure put onto Thailand by the world hopefully will make them finally become a politically stable country.
What are the various “sides” in the debate?
Some are hoping to develop the economy of Thailand, which would support the political stability of the country (supposedly). Others are hoping to prosecute all the Prime Ministers and other corrupt government members, hoping to resolve the instability of the political situation in Thailand.
Which aspects of the issue are most important to your country?
The US has been trying to develop the economy of Thailand both with the Free Trade Agreement, and the multiple investments, second only to Japan. It is safe to assume that the US is hoping to develop the economy of Thailand, which would supposedly support the political stability of the country.
If your country is not involved with the issue, how can it become involved?
It's involved.
How will your country shape the debate at the conference?
It will probably want to continue with the development of Thailand's economy, and will want to make that argument heard, to continue what some organizations have already done.
What arguments will other countries make?
They may argue that the improvement of Thailand's economy will have no effect whatsoever on the political stability of the country. They may say that is more important to work on prosecuting the corrupted government members than to try and improve Thailand's economy.
How do the positions of other countries affect your country’s position?
US may have to fold and agree with its closer allies in order to maintain good political terms with them, and so be forced to move from its previous decisions and agree with their allies decisions.
Is there evidence or statistics that might help to back up your country’s position?